Vintage Receivers From The 70's and 80's

most WPC

Back in the late 70's audio manufacturers engaged in a war. You might call it a war of watts. The consumer seemed to have an insatiable appetite for more and more watts in their receivers. Manufacturers were quick to oblige and started making and marketing higher and higher wattage machines. Each company tried to outdo the other. Many think that the Pioneer SX-1980 is the most powerful receiver ever made but that's actually not the case. Of course, we need to stick to a few guidelines before deciding on our power list.

First, we'll stick to receivers only and not separates. Second, since this site covers vintage receivers we'll stick to those considered "vintage" which of course is a definition we apply loosely. For this list we'll stick to 1990 and earlier. We'll also use the rated output into 8 ohms specified by the manufacturer. This can be inconsistent and some manufacturers such as Marantz probably under rated their receivers power output. Still, we have to have a standard and that will be it.

OK, so what are the top ten most powerful vintage receivers of all time?

The Technics SA-1000 takes the top spot with a massive 330 watts per channel. Of course its size matches its power output as well. It measures 25 inches long, 22 inches deep and 7 inches tall and weighs in at a back breaking 90 pounds.

You could make the argument that the Sansui G-33000 and Sansui G-22000 shouldn't be on the list because they are essentially separates but I think many collectors still consider them as "receivers" even though they are not truly integrated.

There you have it! The most powerful vintage receivers ever made. Of course, all of them are highly collectible and bring high prices at auction. Surprisingly a Technics SA-1000 recently sold with a buy it now at $1500 which seems fairly cheap. The Pioneer SX-1980's can sell for up to $4000 and the Marantz 2500 and 2600's up to or more than that.